Strengthening CNMI-Japan Relations
I had the honor of meeting with Minister of Congressional Affairs Ken Ono to reaffirm the close partnership between the CNMI and Japan. Our discussion focused on expanding economic cooperation through trade, investment, and tourism, while also ensuring our historic and cultural ties remain at the center of this important relationship. Japan continues to be one of our strongest partners, and greater collaboration offers real opportunities to create jobs, attract new investment, and promote sustainable growth in our islands. As a symbol of our shared history, I presented Minister Ono with a commemorative gift from Tinian containing star sand from Chulu Beach, and a piece of asphalt from Runway Able, the historic airstrip from which the Enola Gay and Bockscar launched during World War II. This gesture underscored both the weight of our past and the promise of a future built on deeper cooperation and enduring friendship between our islands and Japan.